Witnesses - Who Saw What Happened to Thousands of Children in Residential Schools?

How Could Thousands Die Without Someone Knowing?

Some things are so horrific it is difficult to wrap your mind around them. Today Canadians mark the third year of a National Day of Mourning - mourning for the loss of thousands of children's lives at residential schools run by religious organizations on behalf of the Canadian government; mourning for the loss of great cultural knowledge and languages; mourning for lives harmed by racialized systemic injustices against the people who kindly nursed the early explorers through their first winter in Canada and offered to share this country; and yes -mourning for the systemic injustices that still exist today in this land I call home. September 30th is Truth and Reconciliation Day.

As more and more graves of children are exhumed at the residential schools where families were forced to send their children, one cannot help but wonder how could no one have seen what was happening? 

There is One who sees all and knows all - Our Creator. I am grateful the evil that was done is finally being brought into the light.

Scripture:

• He said, "What have you done? Your innocent brother's blood cries out to me from the ground!" Genesis 4:1

What Can Canadians Do to Rectify the Horrible Crimes Committed Against First Nations Peoples?

The horrors committed against First Nations peoples in Canada are a painful part of the country’s history and unfortunately - still continue today. Acknowledging these atrocities and working towards reconciliation is crucial. Here are some actions Canadians can take: 

1. Pray. Take time to stop and pray every day for Our Creator to remove the blinders from officials' eyes to the many ways horrible crimes are still being perpetuated against First Nations Peoples in Canada today - some - like not ensuring fresh drinking water need to be corrected immediately. Pray for Our Creator to show us how to find ways to do what our government refuses to do. Pray for Our Creator to show us ways to return stolen lands into First Nation's hands.
2. Educate Yourself: Learn about the history of colonization, residential schools, and the ongoing impacts on Indigenous communities. Read books, watch documentaries, and listen to Indigenous voices to gain a deeper understanding of the issues. 
3.  Support Indigenous Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that support Indigenous communities. These organizations work towards healing, cultural preservation, and empowerment. 
4.  Advocate for Change: Use your voice to advocate for policies that address the needs and rights of Indigenous peoples. Support initiatives that promote equality, justice, and reconciliation. It is hard to believe that so many Indigenous families still do not have clean drinking water.
5.  Listen and Amplify: Listen to the stories and experiences of Indigenous peoples without judgment or defensiveness. Amplify their voices by sharing their stories and perspectives with others. 
6.  Challenge Stereotypes: Challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about Indigenous peoples. Educate others about Indigenous communities' rich cultures, histories, and contributions. 
7.  Engage in Dialogue: Engage in respectful dialogue with friends, family, and colleagues about Indigenous issues. Encourage open conversations that promote understanding and empathy. 
8.  Participate in Events: Attend events organized by Indigenous communities to celebrate their culture, traditions, and achievements. Participate in National Indigenous Peoples Day and other cultural events. Learn about Orange Shirt Day in this radio broadcast interview with the Orange Shirt Day Founder.
9.  Support Indigenous Businesses: Purchase products or services from Indigenous-owned businesses to support economic development within Indigenous communities. Exactly who did that orange T-shirt you are wearing support?
10.  Vote Responsibly: Consider the positions of political candidates on Indigenous issues when voting in elections. Support candidates who prioritize reconciliation and meaningful engagement with Indigenous peoples.  I was shocked to hear what was said about Indigemous people by Pierre Poliviere. It is even more shocking is he is the head of a major political party after a comment like that!
11.  Reflect on Personal Bias: Reflect on your biases and prejudices towards Indigenous peoples. Challenge yourself to unlearn stereotypes and treat all individuals with respect and dignity. 

 Remember, reconciliation is an ongoing process that requires commitment from all Canadians. By taking these actions, you can contribute to healing, understanding, and building a more inclusive society. 

 What are Some Indigenous Organizations You Can Support?

There are many Indigenous organizations in Canada that you can support. Here are some of them: 

•  Native Women’s Association of Canada: This national group advocates for Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people. 
• Indspire: This registered charity invests in education for Indigenous people. 
• Legacy of Hope Foundation: This Indigenous-led organization aims to educate and raise awareness about the history of residential schools and other forms of cultural oppression against Indigenous peoples 
• Canadian Roots Exchange: This youth-led charity empowers young people to stand in solidarity with Indigenous peoples and reconciliation by facilitating conversations and strengthening relationships 
• Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami: This Ottawa-based non-profit represents over 60,000 Inuit, working to advance their rights and interests and improve health and well-being across the four Inuit regions in Canada 
• Reconciliation Canada: This organization aims to engage Canadians in conversations about reconciliation and improve relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people through awareness, outreach programs, and workshops 
• The Art For Aid Project: This Métis-owned organization supports Indigenous art education programs, providing access to supplies and working to connect young people to art and a greater knowledge of their culture 
• True North Aid: This organization supports northern Indigenous communities through humanitarian assistance, with a focus on accessible food, housing, water, and education 

These are just a few of the organizations working towards healing, cultural preservation, and empowerment within Indigenous communities. You can donate to or volunteer with these organizations to support their efforts.

Sources:

• How Canada committed genocide against Indigenous Peoples, explained by the lawyer central to the determination (theconversation.com)
• Canada must reveal ‘undiscovered truths’ of residential schools to heal | Global development | The Guardian
• Tip of the iceberg: The true state of drinking water advisories in First Nations | News | University of Calgary (ucalgary.ca)
• Healing racism in Canadian health care | CMAJ

About This Author

Sister Su is grateful to God for keeping her alive. She is a Trent/Queen's Concurrent Education graduate with over 20 years of teaching experience. She writes on several blogs, has a YouTube channel and is most easily reached through Twitter @Sister_Su See her link tree for more details:@Sister_Su | Linktree